Global Knee Osteoarthritis Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Size

• The global knee osteoarthritis market size was valued at USD 7.70 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 15.69 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.30% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fueled by the rising prevalence of knee osteoarthritis globally, driven by the aging population, increasing obesity rates, and sedentary lifestyles, which are contributing to higher incidences of joint-related disorders
• Furthermore, growing demand for minimally invasive procedures, advancements in pharmacological therapies, and the development of innovative regenerative medicine approaches such as stem cell and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies are accelerating the uptake of knee osteoarthritis solutions, thereby significantly boosting the industry's growth

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Analysis

• Knee Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of articular cartilage and underlying bone in the knee joint, is a leading cause of chronic pain, disability, and reduced mobility among the aging population worldwide. The market growth is driven by the rising prevalence of obesity, increasing geriatric population, and advancements in disease management approaches, including pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical interventions
• The escalating demand for Knee Osteoarthritis treatment is primarily fueled by the availability of novel therapies, growing awareness about early diagnosis, and the rising adoption of minimally invasive procedures such as intra-articular injections and advanced joint replacement techniques
• North America dominated the knee osteoarthritis market with the largest revenue share of 41.20% in 2024, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure, high treatment adoption rates, and strong presence of leading pharmaceutical and medical device companies. The U.S. accounted for the majority of the regional share due to higher prevalence rates, robust clinical trial activity, and favorable reimbursement policies
• Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region in the knee osteoarthritis market during the forecast period, with a projected CAGR driven by a rapidly aging population, increasing obesity rates, expanding access to healthcare, and growing investments in orthopedic care infrastructure in countries such as China, India, and Japan
• The imaging tests segment accounted for the largest market revenue share of 51.6% in 2024, as X-rays and MRIs remain the gold standard in confirming structural changes in knee joints. Imaging tests are widely used due to their accuracy, accessibility, and ability to assess the severity of cartilage damage, guiding treatment decisions

Report Scope and Knee Osteoarthritis Market Segmentation

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Trends

Advancements in Therapeutics and Rising Treatment Adoption

• A significant and accelerating trend in the global knee osteoarthritis market is the continuous advancement in pharmacological, non-pharmacological, and surgical treatment options. The growing availability of novel drug formulations, biologics, and innovative joint repair solutions is significantly enhancing patient outcomes and improving quality of life
  • For instance, in recent years, the development of intra-articular therapies such as hyaluronic acid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and stem cell-based treatments has provided patients with minimally invasive alternatives to surgery, offering effective pain relief and slowing disease progression. Similarly, advancements in joint replacement implants and surgical techniques are driving greater adoption of total and partial knee replacement procedures worldwide
• Increasing integration of digital health platforms in knee osteoarthritis care enables remote monitoring, patient education, and treatment adherence, thereby improving disease management. For example, digital physiotherapy programs and mobile health applications help patients follow personalized exercise regimens, monitor pain levels, and engage with clinicians in real time. Furthermore, growing awareness campaigns and educational initiatives by healthcare organizations are ensuring earlier diagnosis and timely treatment initiation
• The incorporation of multidisciplinary treatment approaches that combine medication, physical therapy, lifestyle modification, and surgical interventions is reshaping the standard of care for knee osteoarthritis. Through a single coordinated approach, patients can achieve better pain management, improved mobility, and reduced risk of disability
• This trend towards comprehensive, patient-centered care is fundamentally reshaping treatment strategies for knee osteoarthritis. Consequently, companies and research institutes are increasingly investing in the development of disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) and advanced biologic therapies, aiming not just to alleviate pain but also to slow or reverse joint degeneration
• The demand for effective, long-term knee osteoarthritis management solutions is growing rapidly across both developed and developing regions, as healthcare systems and patients increasingly prioritize improved functional outcomes, reduced dependence on opioids, and enhanced overall quality of life

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Dynamics

Driver

Growing Need Due to Rising Prevalence and Aging Population

• The increasing prevalence of knee osteoarthritis worldwide, coupled with the rapidly aging population, is a significant driver for the heightened demand for advanced treatment options. Rising obesity rates, sedentary lifestyles, and an increase in sports-related injuries are also contributing to the growing disease burden, creating strong demand for both pharmacological and surgical interventions
  • For instance, in 2024, several biopharmaceutical companies announced advancements in regenerative medicine and injectable therapies aimed at improving pain relief and delaying the need for knee replacement surgery. Such strategic developments by key players are expected to drive the knee osteoarthritis industry growth during the forecast period
• As patients and healthcare providers become more aware of the long-term complications associated with untreated osteoarthritis, there is an increasing preference for early interventions such as physical therapy, intra-articular injections, and minimally invasive procedures. These approaches provide better functional outcomes and delay disease progression compared to traditional pain management alone
• Furthermore, the growing demand for joint preservation techniques and biologics, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies, highlights the shift towards more advanced and effective treatment modalities. Hospitals and specialty clinics are expanding their service offerings to meet this growing demand, thereby boosting overall market adoption
• The convenience of outpatient procedures, combined with shorter recovery times, has also led to a significant increase in patient preference for minimally invasive treatments. The rising availability of cost-effective therapies and the inclusion of osteoarthritis management under national healthcare programs in many countries are further accelerating market growth

Restraint/Challenge

High Treatment Costs and Limited Access in Developing Regions

• Despite the growing demand, the high cost of advanced treatment options such as biologic therapies, intra-articular injections, and knee replacement surgeries poses a significant challenge to broader market penetration. Many patients, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, face financial barriers that limit access to effective treatment
  • For instance, while joint replacement surgeries have become more common in developed regions, their high costs remain prohibitive for a large section of the population in developing countries, restricting adoption. Similarly, regenerative and biologic therapies are often priced at a premium, limiting their accessibility to only a small percentage of patients
• Addressing these cost challenges through favorable reimbursement policies, government healthcare subsidies, and broader insurance coverage is crucial to ensure wider adoption of advanced knee osteoarthritis treatments. Partnerships between public health authorities and private players to make treatments more affordable are also expected to play an important role.
• In addition, the limited availability of specialized healthcare infrastructure and trained professionals in some regions hinders the adoption of advanced therapeutic options. Rural and underserved populations, in particular, struggle to access timely diagnosis and effective interventions, resulting in delayed treatment and worsening disease outcomes
• Overcoming these challenges through cost-effective innovations, increased healthcare investments, and targeted awareness campaigns will be vital for ensuring equitable access and sustained market growth in the global knee osteoarthritis landscape

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Scope

The knee osteoarthritis market is segmented on the basis of treatment type, route of administration, dosage form, diagnosis, end-users, and distribution channel.

• By Treatment Type

On the basis of treatment type, the knee osteoarthritis market is segmented into medication, surgery, and therapy. The medication segment dominated the largest market revenue share of 46.5% in 2024, driven by the widespread use of NSAIDs, corticosteroids, and analgesics for symptomatic relief. Patients and healthcare providers often prefer medications as the first-line treatment due to ease of access, affordability, and non-invasive nature. The growing burden of knee osteoarthritis cases, especially among aging populations, further supports the strong demand for medications. In addition, the availability of generic versions and ongoing improvements in drug formulations are strengthening this segment’s dominance across both developed and emerging markets.

The surgery segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth rate of 20.6% CAGR from 2025 to 2032, fueled by the rising adoption of knee replacement procedures and advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques. Increased life expectancy and the growing number of patients with severe joint damage are driving the need for surgical interventions. Moreover, technological innovations such as robotic-assisted surgeries and improved implant materials are boosting patient outcomes, accelerating the shift toward surgical solutions. Favorable reimbursement policies and expanding surgical infrastructure in emerging economies also contribute to this segment’s strong growth outlook.

• By Route of Administration

On the basis of route of administration, the knee osteoarthritis market is segmented into Oral, Parenteral, and Others. The oral segment held the largest market revenue share of 49.3% in 2024, attributed to the convenience, high patient compliance, and broad availability of oral medications such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. Oral formulations are often prescribed as the first choice for long-term symptom management due to ease of use and affordability. Their widespread distribution through hospital and retail pharmacies also enhances access, making oral drugs the backbone of knee osteoarthritis management. In addition, the familiarity and trust among patients regarding oral treatments further support the segment’s dominance.

The parenteral segment is expected to witness the fastest CAGR of 19.8% from 2025 to 2032, driven by the increasing popularity of injectable treatments such as corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, and biologics. These options provide targeted and longer-lasting relief compared to oral drugs, making them favorable for patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis. The introduction of advanced injectables and ongoing clinical research in regenerative therapies such as stem cell and PRP injections are expanding the adoption of parenteral treatments. The growing acceptance of outpatient injectable procedures also accelerates market growth in this segment.

• By Dosage Form

On the basis of dosage form, the knee osteoarthritis market is segmented into Tablets, Injections, and Others. The tablet segment dominated the largest market revenue share of 44.1% in 2024, driven by its convenience, mass production capabilities, and affordability. Tablets remain the most common form of NSAIDs and analgesics prescribed for knee osteoarthritis, making them highly accessible in both developed and developing regions. Their stability, longer shelf life, and ease of transport enhance patient adherence and ensure strong demand. Moreover, the availability of both branded and generic options in tablet form ensures affordability across income groups, sustaining this segment’s dominance.

The injections segment is anticipated to record the fastest growth rate of 21.2% CAGR from 2025 to 2032, fueled by the rising demand for intra-articular injections of corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, and emerging biologics. These injections provide localized relief and are increasingly preferred for patients who do not respond adequately to oral therapies. Advances in regenerative medicine, including stem cell-based injectables, are creating new opportunities for sustained market expansion. Growing awareness among physicians and patients about the efficacy of injections in reducing pain and improving mobility further accelerates adoption.

• By Diagnosis

On the basis of diagnosis, the knee osteoarthritis market is segmented into Imaging Tests, Joint Fluid Analysis, Blood Tests, and Others. The imaging tests segment accounted for the largest market revenue share of 51.6% in 2024, as X-rays and MRIs remain the gold standard in confirming structural changes in knee joints. Imaging tests are widely used due to their accuracy, accessibility, and ability to assess the severity of cartilage damage, guiding treatment decisions. The growing availability of advanced imaging technologies and integration of AI in diagnostics further enhances efficiency and reliability. High demand from hospitals and diagnostic centers continues to drive this segment’s leadership.

The joint fluid analysis segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 18.9% from 2025 to 2032, driven by its effectiveness in distinguishing osteoarthritis from other arthritic conditions. With increasing emphasis on precision medicine and early detection, joint fluid analysis is gaining traction as a complementary diagnostic tool. Advancements in biomarker research and laboratory automation are improving the accuracy of synovial fluid testing, fueling higher adoption. This trend is expected to strengthen further as clinicians increasingly rely on confirmatory diagnostic methods for targeted treatment plans.

• By End-Users

On the basis of end-users, the knee osteoarthritis market is segmented into Hospitals, Specialty Clinics, Homecare, and Others. The hospital segment dominated the largest market revenue share of 47.8% in 2024, supported by the high number of knee osteoarthritis diagnoses and surgical procedures performed in hospital settings. Hospitals benefit from advanced infrastructure, multidisciplinary care, and comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. The availability of reimbursement support and a large patient inflow further enhances this segment’s leadership. Hospitals are also the preferred centers for advanced surgical interventions such as knee replacements, which further strengthens their role in this market.

The specialty clinics segment is expected to register the fastest growth rate of 20.1% CAGR from 2025 to 2032, driven by the growing trend toward specialized and outpatient care for chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis. Patients prefer specialty clinics due to shorter waiting times, personalized treatment approaches, and focused expertise in orthopedic and rheumatology care. The expansion of private healthcare infrastructure and rising investments in specialty practices globally are further supporting the rapid growth of this segment. In addition, the adoption of advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive procedures in specialty clinics is improving patient outcomes. Increasing collaborations between specialty clinics and pharmaceutical companies for clinical trials and innovative therapy delivery are also accelerating growth.

• By Distribution Channel

On the basis of distribution channel, the knee osteoarthritis market is segmented into Hospital Pharmacy, Retail Pharmacy, Online Pharmacy, and Others. The retail pharmacy segment held the largest market revenue share of 45.4% in 2024, driven by its accessibility, wide reach, and patient reliance on over-the-counter and prescription medications. Retail pharmacies continue to play a key role in providing immediate access to oral medications and topical pain relief drugs. Their convenience and availability in both urban and rural areas strengthen this segment’s dominance. Strategic partnerships between pharmaceutical companies and retail pharmacy chains also enhance product availability.

The online pharmacy segment is projected to witness the fastest CAGR of 22.3% from 2025 to 2032, fueled by the rapid digitalization of healthcare and increasing patient preference for home delivery. Online platforms provide convenience, competitive pricing, and wider product access, making them attractive especially for elderly patients with mobility challenges. Rising internet penetration, adoption of e-prescriptions, and government support for telemedicine are further driving growth in this segment. Moreover, the integration of AI-driven recommendation systems and digital health platforms is enhancing personalized medicine delivery. Growing collaborations between pharmaceutical companies and e-commerce giants are also expected to strengthen this segment’s expansion globally.

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Regional Analysis

• North America dominated the knee osteoarthritis market in 2024, capturing the largest revenue share of 41.20%. This leadership is attributed to the region’s well-established healthcare infrastructure, high patient awareness, and early adoption of advanced treatment options, including pharmaceuticals, biologics, and surgical interventions such as joint replacements
• In addition, the presence of major global pharmaceutical and medical device companies with strong distribution networks has further fueled market growth and accessibility for patients
• The market accounted for the majority of the regional share due to higher prevalence rates, robust clinical trial activity, and favorable reimbursement policies that improve patient access to advanced treatment options

U.S. Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The U.S. knee osteoarthritis market captured the largest revenue share in 2024 within North America, driven by the growing prevalence of obesity, aging demographics, and lifestyle-related risk factors. Strong clinical research initiatives, rapid adoption of injectable therapies, and the availability of cutting-edge medical devices contribute significantly to market growth. In addition, the favorable reimbursement landscape and widespread access to orthopedic specialists further enhance adoption rates across hospitals and specialty clinics.

Europe Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The Europe knee osteoarthritis market is projected to expand at a steady CAGR throughout the forecast period, supported by the rising incidence of osteoarthritis and growing demand for minimally invasive treatments. Strong government healthcare programs, combined with increased awareness campaigns about joint health, are accelerating diagnosis and treatment adoption. Countries such as Germany, the U.K., and France are leading the market growth with significant investments in joint replacement surgeries and regenerative therapies.

U.K. Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The U.K. Knee Osteoarthritis market is anticipated to grow at a noteworthy CAGR, driven by the aging population and rising demand for knee replacement surgeries. National Health Service (NHS) initiatives to improve waiting times and expand access to orthopedic care are supporting growth. Furthermore, increasing adoption of innovative therapies, such as hyaluronic acid injections and biologics, is boosting the treatment landscape.

Germany Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The Germany knee osteoarthritis market is expected to expand at a considerable CAGR during the forecast period, supported by the country’s advanced healthcare infrastructure and emphasis on innovative medical technologies. High surgical procedure volumes, along with a strong preference for minimally invasive approaches and advanced implants, are key drivers. Germany’s focus on research and development in regenerative medicine is also contributing to a shift toward novel treatment modalities.

Asia Pacific Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific knee osteoarthritis market is expected to be the fastest growing region in the knee osteoarthritis market during the forecast period, driven by a rapidly aging population, increasing obesity rates, expanding access to healthcare, and growing investments in orthopedic care infrastructure in countries such as China, India, and Japan.

Japan Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The Japan knee osteoarthritis market is gaining momentum due to the country’s rapidly aging population, high prevalence of degenerative joint diseases, and strong adoption of advanced medical technologies. The government’s focus on elderly care and the growing role of regenerative therapies, including stem cell research, are driving demand. Increasing access to orthopedic specialists and innovation in minimally invasive procedures are further boosting the market.

China Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The China knee osteoarthritis market accounted for the largest revenue share in Asia-Pacific in 2024, attributed to the country’s massive patient population, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and growing awareness of osteoarthritis management. The rise in obesity rates and lifestyle changes have accelerated the demand for both pharmacological and surgical treatments. Government investment in orthopedic hospitals and rapid advancements in domestic medical device manufacturing are fueling strong growth.

India Knee Osteoarthritis Market Insight

The India knee osteoarthritis market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the rising burden of obesity, diabetes, and sedentary lifestyles. Increasing healthcare investments, the expansion of specialty orthopedic hospitals, and growing medical tourism for affordable joint replacement surgeries are accelerating market adoption. Awareness campaigns and improving access to biologics and advanced therapies are further strengthening growth.

Knee Osteoarthritis Market Share

The knee osteoarthritis industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (Israel)
• Sanofi (France)
• Pfizer Inc. (U.S.)
• GSK plc (U.K.)
• Zydus Group (India)
• Horizon Therapeutics PLC (Ireland)
• Johnson & Johnson and its affiliates (U.S.)
• Bayer AG (Germany)
• Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (India)
• Assertio Holdings, Inc. (U.S.)

Latest Developments in Global Knee Osteoarthritis Market

• In April 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized marketing of the MISHA Knee System — the first implantable shock-absorber device indicated to treat medial knee osteoarthritis in patients who have failed non-surgical care and are unwilling or ineligible for total knee replacement
• In March 2024, the U.S. FDA granted Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) designation to PCRX-201 (enekinragene inzadenovec), Pacira BioSciences’ investigational intra-articular gene therapy for osteoarthritis of the knee, enabling accelerated clinical development and review
• In November 2024, Pacira BioSciences announced positive multi-year clinical data for PCRX-201, showing sustained improvements in pain, stiffness, and function following a single administration, reinforcing its potential as a long-duration treatment for knee osteoarthritis
• In September 2024, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries and Moebius Medical reported that the U.S. FDA granted Fast Track designation to MM-II, a proprietary large-liposome intra-articular candidate for treating osteoarthritis knee pain, highlighting its potential as a novel non-opioid therapy

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